Sparkspitter MTG Card
2007-05-04 - Number 109
2018-12-07 - Number 149
2019-11-07 - Number 1064
2020-09-26 - Number UMA-149
| Card sets | Released in 4 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Elemental Spellshaper |
| Power | 1 |
| Toughness | 3 |
Text of card
, , Discard a card: Put a 3/1 red Elemental creature token named Spark Elemental into play with trample, haste, and "At end of turn, sacrifice Spark Elemental."
Cards like Sparkspitter
Exploring the realm of token generation in Magic: The Gathering, Sparkspitter easily comes to mind. It shares a kinship with other cards such as Beetleback Chief, which also excels at creating creature tokens. However, Sparkspitter offers a unique twist – the ability to create an Elemental Shaman creature token by sacrificing a mountain. Beetleback Chief requires no such sacrifice, but it also doesn’t provide the repeatable token generation afforded by Sparkspitter.
In a similar spectrum, we have Dragon Fodder. While this spell doesn’t offer the same longevity in token creation since it’s a one-off event, it’s straightforward and efficient at populating the battlefield. And then, there’s Krenko, Mob Boss, the goblin gifted in the art of token proliferation. Unlike Sparkspitter’s elemental tokens, Krenko harnesses the raw power of goblin quantity, potentially creating vast armies each turn.
Overall, when we cast a critical eye on utility and adaptability in token-focused decks, Sparkspitter stands out for its unique ability to repeatedly influence board state. It’s an intriguing option within Magic: The Gathering for players keen on sophisticated strategies and a gradual build-up of game-altering tokens.
Cards similar to Sparkspitter by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Sparkspitter has the inherent ability to create elementals which can translate into card advantage over time. Each elemental represents a potential threat that your opponents must answer.
Resource Acceleration: The elementals generated can be sacrificed not just for strategic plays but also for an uptick in resources, giving you a subtle form of acceleration that can be pivotal in the mid to late game.
Instant Speed: Sparkspitter’s ability can be activated at instant speed, providing flexibility and the element of surprise. This allows savvy players to wait for the most opportune moment before creating an elemental, thereby optimizing their board position.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Playing Sparkspitter mandates discarding a card, which can be detrimental if you’re short on hand options or if the discarded card is integral to your game strategy.
Specific Mana Cost: Sparkspitter’s activation cost is red mana-specific, which could potentially restrict its inclusion only in mono-red or certain multicolored decks, reducing its deck-building versatility.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With the necessity to invest three mana initially and an additional red mana for each use, Sparkspitter might be less efficient compared to other creature generators or value engines that demand less mana investment for a comparable or greater impact on the game state.
Reasons to Include Sparkspitter in Your Collection
Versatility: Sparkspitter showcases flexible usage as it seamlessly integrates into elemental and sacrifice-focused decks. Its ability to create tokens can synergize with various strategies that capitalize on creatures entering or leaving the battlefield.
Combo Potential: This card shines when paired with effects that capitalize on creature tokens or when used to fuel more intricate combinations. The elemental tokens it generates have the potential to be used in concert with spells or abilities that harness their presence or sacrifice for greater impact.
Meta-Relevance: Sparkspitter can become a pivotal piece in a meta where incremental advantages matter. In an environment rich with synergistic token strategies, it can serve as an engine that continuously feeds into your game plan, keeping your board state agile and responsive.
How to beat
Sparkspitter, an intriguing element within the Magic: The Gathering universe, has the unique ability to turn cards in hand into elementals, potentially creating unexpected advantages for the player who wields it. This ability can be frustrating to counter, but remember, Sparkspitter requires a steady influx of cards to maintain its engine.
When facing this card, the key is to disrupt the flow of cards to your opponent’s hand. This can be achieved via targeted hand disruption spells or by applying pressure that forces them to use their resources inefficiently. Cards like Thoughtseize or Duress can tear apart an opponent’s planned plays, while aggressive creatures force them to block and trade rather than stockpiling cards for Sparkspitter’s ability.
Additionally, it’s worth noting to always be prepared to deal with the elemental tokens created by Sparkspitter. Keeping board wipes or spot removal in hand can mitigate the threats generated each turn. By limiting the number of cards your opponent can keep and being ready to clean up tokens, you can master the matchup against this fiery foe. Stay one step ahead, and Sparkspitter’s flicker of hope for dominance will quickly be snuffed out, stabilizing your path to victory.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Sparkspitter MTG card by a specific set like Future Sight and Ultimate Masters, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.
For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.
Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.
Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Sparkspitter and other MTG cards:
BUY NOW BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer
- eBay
- Card Kingdom
- Card Market
- Star City Games
- CoolStuffInc
- MTG Mint Card
- Hareruya
- Troll and Toad
- ABU Games
- Card Hoarder Magic Online
- MTGO Traders Magic Online
See MTG Products
Printings
The Sparkspitter Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2007-05-04 and 2019-11-07. Illustrated by Dan Scott.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2007-05-04 | Future Sight | FUT | 109 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Dan Scott | |
| 2 | 2018-12-07 | Ultimate Masters | UMA | 149 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Dan Scott | |
| 3 | 2019-11-07 | Mystery Booster | MB1 | 1064 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Dan Scott | |
| 4 | The List | PLST | UMA-149 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Dan Scott |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Sparkspitter has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |